PVC and ACRE™ are popular choices for exterior millwork thanks to their durability, longevity and low maintenance—but when it comes to finishing these materials, not just any paint or stain will do. Choosing the right finishing isn’t only about appearance—it plays a critical role in performance, especially in regulating heat buildup. Below, we break down what you need to know about painting and staining PVC and ACRE.
Color Choice Matters
Chipping, cracking and blistering paint is an adhesion issue with wood, but not with PVC or ACRE. However, these thermoplastic materials expand and contract with temperature changes, which means its coating must be able to do the same.
PVC millwork comes ready to install in a crisp, white finish. If white works for your design, no painting is necessary, although paint decreases the frequency of cleaning required. For any other color, including a brighter white, PVC can be painted (not stained). On the other hand, ACRE, a sustainable alternative to wood, can be either painted or stained for a rich, natural appearance or custom look.
Heat-Mitigating Paint
National Millwork exclusively uses PPG’s paints with 897 colorants, formulated specifically to help mitigate heat buildup. These advanced coatings allow infrared light to pass through the paint and impact the substrate—reducing surface temperature and improving longevity. This technology allows us to use darker colors—even black—to achieve nearly any look you prefer.
We began using PPG’s heat-mitigating paints more than 12 years ago and have seen impressive results. The paint sticks like glue, even as the material expands and contracts. Even on our older jobs, the colors remain vibrant and intact. Over decades, we expect some fading or chalking may occur, but maintenance is minimal—typically just a power wash and repaint.
Professional Custom Finishing Makes a Difference
Shop-applied finishes offer consistent results and superior durability. In a controlled environment, finishes are applied free from dust, moisture and temperature fluctuations that can compromise adhesion and appearance on job sites.
| Feature | Shop-Finished | Site-Finished |
| Consistency | High | Variable |
| Prep & Adhesion | Controlled, thorough | Jobsite-dependent |
| Time & Labor | Faster, off-site | Slower, on-site |
| Longevity | Enhanced | Less predictable |
The Right Finish, Applied Right
The best finish isn’t just about color or material—it’s about knowledge, application and environment. With the right process and professional care, your trim and millwork will look better, last longer and perform beautifully.
Whether you’re designing a modern space or restoring a classic one, our experts can help you choose and apply the perfect finish. Contact us to learn more or request a custom sample.